Quick thinking sometimes hurts like hell (Feat. Sara Pezzini, Lara Croft, John Bishop, Jackie Estacado, Terry Sheridan, and Members of the Yakuza.)

Sweat dripped from the bandage wrapped fists as they repeatedly punched the heavy bag. Duct tape held the canvas sack together from years of abuse at the hands or rather fists of each fighter to stand before the bag. Well toned arms aimed several more punches against the hanging bag as the clenched teeth bore into an animalistic grimace. Homicide Detective Sara Pezzini came here for a reason. Screw the juice bar, throw away the sauna, and absolutely forget about the pick up lines. She was here for the lack of atmosphere, and to simply work out until her lungs burned fire and her muscles screamed for release. Then ask for seconds. Sweat dripped from her eyebrow as she landed punch after punch against the bag. Her knuckles felt like they were about to burst from the friction and the strength that she was putting into her workout, but it was this kind of pain that reminded her she was alive. The cop didn't need music, mirrored classrooms filled with organized valley girls performing step aerobics. Women too busy bitching about their limited edition BMW or their house in the Hamptons to realize that no one was listening. Cattle. mindless sheep, lost on planet Starbucks with only their Visa Platinum to guide them home. A well worn boxing ring stood at the far side of this place, the floor was plain concrete, half the florescent lights flickered, denoting the age of the tubes. A shit hole to the core, but 'Better Bodies' was Sara's home away from home. Determined, focused, blow after blow the shock that drove up her arm jolted chords of resonance into the brunette's heart.

Lara had not really gotten to bed that night until four in the morning. Her mind was too boggled down and then Bryce had sent her a care package from England and a letter telling her an old friend would be paying a visit to also offer some assistance. Bad thing was this friend could add more flames to the already present inferno. A very fun little care package that would help her figure out what exactly Kenneth Irons was or wasn't up too. However, the Brit had a date to keep one that was pre-planned. The auburn haired Archaeologist burst rather into the gym," Oh Sara! There you are. Bollocks. So sorry I'm late." hazel orbs watched carefully as the Detective beat the hell out of a punching bag. A yawn escaped the Surrey girl's full lips, one she didn't catch," Hmm. Late night." With a rather quick amused smile, the Brit sat down her bag and pulled out some tape and began to run some around her slender hands," By the way might want to inform Mr. Siry he's now short a squad car." The British accent casually dropped as she took up a bag next to Pez's and began to manhandle it like a lot of guys have never seen a woman do before," Also Bryce sent me a not-so fun for Mr. Irons care package and a note saying a old friend of mine is paying a visit."

knocks down his sparring partner with a hard right hook to his head, looking over at Lara as he removes his boxing headgear, "Just an old friend, huh?" John smiles at the two women and helps up his sparring partner, "Sorry, Hank," he says quietly as he gets help from a trainer to remover his gloves. hops out of the boxing ring, hands still taped, wearing a pair of mesh shorts and some sneakers, sweat glistening off his well-kept body. He nods his head to Lara with a smile, "Mornin', cutie. Late as usual, I can see.. but always fashionably late, right?" He winks and extends a hand out to Sara, "Bishop. John Bishop." smiles at Sara, "You've got some nice moves, by the way, nearly tired myself out just watching you work over in that ring. Shit like that'll be useful knowing what I know." He looks at Lara, "What's in the care package?"

Sara wasn't in the mood for jokes at the moment, her morning had consisted of a half an hour of yelling in the face from Lieutenant Siry. The guy was more of less Sara's surrogate father, but even he has a breaking point toward the girl. When he yelled like that it brought back the memory of the only time she went toe to toe with him, yelling back into his face. The day her father was killed on duty. It was understandable, Joe was his partner and forever a part of her life. "I don't really think Joe would want to hear any more bad news right now." She grimaced and punched the bag again. Pausing for a moment she looked toward John. Strings of sweat soaked hair were loose from her ponytail and her body glistened with sweat. 'Late as usual?' she thought? 'Who is this clown?' Sara looked to his extended hand and then back up to his face. "I'm sorry but do I know you?" She was breathing a bit hard and casually she wiped at her eyes with the back of her wrapped hand. Her tone was harsh and irrationally miffed. "It's a wonder you could tear yourself away and come all the way over here." She rolled her eyes and glanced toward Lara.

Lara almost fell over at the sound of John's voice," Hmm. Sneaky." it seemed the British brat seemed a rather bit shocked to see him so soon. Very shocked, but she would indeed deal. Oh this was going to present problems indeed with a few things. Stopping a moment the clad in black workout shorts and a white sports bra woman took a quick drink of her water and looked at John a moment," In the care package? A hacking program actually. Bryce taught me some computer knowledge since you last saw me darling." Idly she checked the white tap wrapped around her hands, making sure it was secure and not about to slip or break, then Lara went back to punching and kicking. Soon someone turned on a stereo at the front of the place and the bombshell feel in step with her moves to the beat. A deadly dance if you will. It seemed to clear her head for the most part of the things now nagging like a starving pack of wolves at her. Lara nodded to Sara," this is Detective Sara Pezzini a friend of mine here in New York." The British Brat made the introductions," John is the friend in the letter from Bryce I told you about just barely." Seriously the woman prayed for no more nasty surprises this morning," I'll explain about the car later." Her tone seemed to hold haste as she glanced to Sara, before adverting her gaze to gesture at John and ack-hemed as if to hint on something)," I'll be right back.. you two get to know each other okay?" With that Lara excused herself to the ladies room for some silence her mind spinning.

An eyebrow at Sara at her reply, and right away he thinks, ~Well, her file was right... a little jumpy, too, we'll keep the jokes on the back burner for now then..~ Nonetheless, John tried again, extending a hand out to Sara after Lara's introduction of him, "Shall we try this again?" smiles at Sara, nodding to Lara as she walks away, holding his hand out to Sara still. He hopes she'll learn to trust him, because with the briefing he was sent by his superiors at Langley, they're gonna need more than Lara's newly found hacking skills to figure it out. Just then, someone taps John on the shoulder, and he turns around to two very large men, very muscled. "May I help you?" John asks with a smile, looking up to them. They reply, "You been using the ring since opening, we wanna know what took youse so long ta get out." John smiles, "Just waiting on a friend, fellas. Now I met up with her, so it's all yours." But the larger of the two just gets angry and throws a punch. quickly moves his torso to the side, ducking down to the left and coming right back up with a hard uppercut to the man's side, and then coming down with his opposite fist into the man's head, knocking him to the floor. John looks up at the second guy, "Try it." The man just grabs his buddy and walks away, dragging his unconscious friend. John looks back to Sara, holding out his hand...

The half Irish half Italian detective usually let the calculating side of her father's family do the talking but when her anger let loose she fought like her mother. Today was one of those occasions. The Irish side was in a pisser of a mood and Sara wasn't taking kindly to being interrupted during her workout. Upon seeing the incident she takes a fighting stance and prepares to defend herself. "Hey hey boys?! (toward the two starting trouble) The testosterone in here is enough to choke a horse. why don't you go get a shower and cool off." Shaking her head after John took care of things she extended her hand and accepted the shake. "I don't mean to sound rude, I've had a pretty big day." She quirked a brow and let the calculating Italian side take over. "Since you know Lara I'm sure she's led you to believe that I'm a nice girl... trust me, she wrong. What can I do for you?"

Jackie closes his eyes as he leans hard against the wall. His hands dragged along it's rough surface, contradicting his naturally smooth skin. The power of the Darkness was finally away from him for the time being till nightfall once more returned. He had a lot on his mind as he normally did but some more things had recently been added to his list of problems or dilemmas rather. A new addition to his life was creating a bit of unrest within him. But he wasn't gonna let it try to run him over... he was a lot stronger than that and whatever problem there was which presented itself to Jackie usually got taken care of. Jackie's eyes stared up into the sky... he wasn't too found with the brightness of the city, especially in the morning so that meant that he'd need to go somewhere to shadow himself and get out of the sun. There was this funny feeling in him telling him that this day wasn't gonna go exactly as he was hoping it would have. His hands turned into tight fists as he placed them into his jacket pockets. He brushed off of the wall the started off into the mass of people.

For the longest time Lara stared at herself in the dirt mirror, hazel orbs staring back in a rather worried light," Bugger." She had forgotten about John Bishop and him tailing her about because the Governments found her too good for her own good. Quickly she kicked at the wall, then splashed some cold water on her face," Pull yourself together Lara." The Brit spoke to her reflection which seemed to automatically straighten, head held high as she walked back out into the gym tossing her braid over her shoulder to rest down her back," Sorry bout that, I wasn't feeling quite myself." Boy if that wasn't ever the truth. The Hazel gaze moved around the gym slowly, something wasn't setting well with her about the place and then she saw why. Four Japanese guys were off in one corner," Sara...Do they come here often?" Lara didn't think so, in fact she figured a gym like this would be the last place men like that would be," They seem a little out of place.." Way out of place like a Rembrandt next to a child's art project in the 1st grade," I've got a problem." She studied them carefully,"Pez. We need to leave...." Before Lara could say the word now, the four men turned guns in hand and shot directly towards them as in Lara, Sara and John," Oh bloody hell! They always catch me without my guns!" Quickly hone reflexes came into play and the Brit shot herself forward as the gun fire exploded arms out stretched forcing John and Sara to fall with her," This is going to be one of those days." Sigh With that the Brit stood and looked around, most people had hit the floor including those big burly sorts you wouldn't want to meet in a dark alley at night," Might I ask why you boys keep trying to kill me?" Click, click, click, click," Hmm. I get the idea." The had put a hit on her, it was obvious now. Question was why? smiled, for when she had forced her friends to fall she had nabbed John's gun. He always carried one," Seems your out of luck today blokes." With that the woman opened fire diving to the right as counter fire began landing behind a rack of weights. Funny thing was all four guns were aimed only for Lara. Not John, Not Pez. Just Lara. Soon the place had become quite a commotion indeed full of gun fire and falling men," Two down two to go." She was treating this like a target practice session, which to Lara Croft every time she fired a gun it was simply just that. With a grin on her face she fired round after round, hoping either she hit the other two before she ran out of bullets or that John had thought to pack extra clips.

Agent John Bishop smiles, "Thought you'd never ask. As of three thirty yesterday afternoon, I am officially a New York City homicide detective rookie, working under the enigmatic Detective Sara Pezzini." His trainer walks by tossing John his bag, which he opens, removing a tank top, which he puts on, and a badge hung by a necklace, which he hangs around his neck. leans in a little closer to Sara, speaking softly, "We'll talk about this more in depth somewhere else." John leans back, picking up his back just as Lara arrives, and then suddenly he is tackled by her. John's had only barely tickled the back of his neck, and it was clear why, they were only after Lara. He reaches into his bag and draws the only other gun with the only other clip and goes after Lara. avoids the stray bullets with ease, guided by a premonition of danger and years of training, and he is able to grab Lara out of the way of a shot going right for her head. He pulls her down behind a thick shelf and looks at her, "Save the ammo." He stands up and quickly aims and fires, hitting a light fixture right above the last two Yakuza. watches it fall down onto them in a sparking cloud of electricity, and then he looks down at Lara, "We need to talk, Lara." He clicks on the safety of his gun and walks back to his back, tossing it in. He grabs a cell phone out of it and lobs it at Lara, "Don't let it leave your side. I need to set up a meeting. Fill in Sara." closes up his bag and walks to the door, tossing the manager of the gym a wad of cash as he exits, "Care of Rich Uncle Sammy" is what the label the cash is wrapped in says, it contains $10,000. John exits the gym and out onto the street.

She opened her mouth to retort and was interrupted by the lovely Miss Croft's out of place comment. "They sure do." Sara's trained eye glanced toward the four men and while the other two took care of business she ran to call for backup. Leaning over the counter she babbled to the officer on the other end. "Detective Pezzini. I need immediate back up to the Better Bodies gym off 23rd and Broad. Shots fired repeat shots fired!" Tossing the phone back to the startled kid, she ran back to the scene. "You'll have to talk to your superior. I already have a partner." Sara turned to her mate with concern. "You alright?'

All things in his mind were completely wiped out now, at least for the moment till he could find a place to dwell and negotiate with himself. The morning wasn't as loud but it soon would be since 7 am was the time when the rushing mass of people headed to work. His body slipped through the crowd like a snake through grass. He wasted no time ever really... straight to the point all the time, unless he felt he need do otherwise. A place had yet to appear in his mind on where exactly he was going but he kept forward nonetheless as his instinct always led him someplace where may need to be or desired to be. Jackie passed by several buildings on his way, not really paying any close attention to any of them or even to the people he was bumping out of his way or sliding past. Ever speak on power walking? Well he was beyond that right now, always having felt the need to be faster than a New York second which seemingly compared to none. Jackie's thoughts raced around his head, coming and passing with ever lost second. The fresh air wasn't doing him any good right about now like it normally did and that was one thing that was making him edgy. Usually when he got like this he prayed for nightfall to hurry so he could release his pent up frustration. Jackie Estacado wasn't much of the mellow type... he needed a relief, something, anything to help him deal with hi unknown stresses. One hand reached a little deeper into the coat pocket, grasping onto the .50 Desert Eagle... he took the gold one out of the house today. And he had a lot of other spare guns... all laced with the same golden outlining with the trace of his Initials stamped on the sides of the chambers. He played with the safety of the gun, flipping it on and off. His focus gradually came back to his current reality and he now knew where to go. To his dojo... that was his place of absolute solitude and no one dared enter without risking the lose of their life in the most dreadful of ways. He set his sights and turned the corner of the street. Now walking with some sort of a purpose. His pace didn't quicken as he was already going fast enough as it is but he seemed to carry himself a little bit different when he gave himself a purpose even if it was very minor. He'd pass a new crime scene on his way... seeing as it was the shortest way there but he of course didn't care about what ever else was happening around him but solely on himself at the present time so if he saw bodies and police... he'd keep on going and not care to see or hear about what went down. It was too early for the bullshit anyways.

brow arched. So the man was prepared. Figures. Lara wasn't the least bit shocked. However the Brit had a gut feeling that this wasn't the only trick up their sleeves. Most people who deal with Lara Croft more then once usually, always carried guns. It was a custom that came from knowing the woman. She's trouble. Lara shrugged her shoulders at Sara as John finished mopping up the last of the men and left," He works for the CIA. Your government thinks I'm too good to be as good as I am. To make a long story short he's keeping tabs on me." Slowly she stood brushing herself off. Resting the gun in the waistband of her shorts, Lara's gaze slowly took in the scene," I've got a lot more to explain to you." With a sigh the Brit began the second part of her little story," And it's probably not going to look so good when John reports I'm fraternizing with Jackie." Might as well get it out. The whole truth. Idly Lara pursed her lips and blew those two annoying strands of hair from her eyes that never seemed to stay in her braid," And before you go off with the right act Pez, he saved my life last night. Train tracks, a train, the Yakuza and now your department is short one squad car. You can do the math on that." Rattled off the High and Mighty British accent with flare. She took a drink of water and leaned against the wall, watching as the cop cars pulled up like bats out of hell," Jackie happened along with one of his...pest lings and saved me." Hazel orbs shifted a moment," Then you could say he sorta saw me home." Lara left it at that, knowing Sara would probably make some rather interesting assumptions as the cops filed in," I'll wait outside if you don't mind. This is your area." With that the Bombshell hoisted her bag up and collected her self out into the morning air," Hmm. Why are all New York morning chilly?" Idly she leaned against her rented Aston Martin and rubbed at her bare arms.

Pezzini immediately went into detective mode. After helping Lara to her feet she surveyed the bodies. Several of them were still twitching and smoking from the shocking experience. As she neared them gingerly, a foot began to twitch; Normal movements for a recently dead body. Sara knew better then to touch anything until forensics arrived, but her eyes scanned over the carnage as she assessed the situation. These guys weren't the best hitters she'd ever seen. A hit out in the open wasn't smart especially in a gym often frequented by the police. "I see. So this isn't the first time the Yakuza has tired to make a hit on you. CIA?! And he's partnered with me?" Sara clenched her hands into tight balls of anger. "This is just fucking perfect." She muttered. How in the world was she going to handle having a CIA agent for a partner when she wielded something like the Witchblade? Her mind began to envision herself on a slab with dozens of doctors around her. A hyperbolic chamber where she was being tested and prodded with stimuli to deduce the scientific answer to her symbiotic weapon. "This is just. perfect!" She nodded to her friend. "Just don't go too far the boys in blue are gonna want to get a statement from you." The brunette knelt a few feet from one of the gangsters and she scrutinized the discarded shell. Her trained eyes, noticed a few things about the shell casing. The first thing, was that it was homemade. it didn't bear the mark of a manufacturer. Secondly was the engraving on the side. A letter in the Japanese alphabet, she wasn't sure which. Sara reached into her gym bag and brought forth a plastic bag. Without ruining any possible prints she utilized the plastic and carefully put the shell into the Ziploc.

He continued onwards at his steady pace, not slowing up or speedy up. He weaves through the current waves of police. He cared less if they didn't like his attitude in passing through, they were of no concern to him. And if someone felt the urge to stop him on his path then he'd punish them the way a master would a disobedient disciple. One officer seemed bolder than the rest obviously, because all Jackie knew was that a hand pressed on his shoulder and pulled him back a bit. The unexpected force used against him set him into rage. Who'd the guy think he was anyways. Jackie's initial reaction was to swiftly turn his body, waving his left arm upwards thus removing the hand placed upon him. His right hand pulled out of his pocket and he aimed the Golden DE at the officer. His left hand grabbed the man during this time as well, pulling him very close. Gun was in place at the mouth and his grip was horrifying in it's strength. All the police around him quickly draw their weapons and take aim. He pays them no mind but keeps focus on the man who was trembling in his grasp... "I advise you never again in your life put your hand on a man like me. I should kill you right now. Never AGAIN Do I wanna see your face... I won't spare you next time!!"... His voice was loud and strong enough to give the military as a whole the shakes. Jackie was putting on a show and all eyes were seemingly on him now. He threw the man then turned his back on them all which might not have been for the best. He lost his hostage so now he was an easy target. eyes burned as he glanced back then quickly turned and placed his back onto the ambulance truck. A few cops moved forwards towards his location, knowing of his location. Jackie raised a brow then took off the safety of his gun, while exposing another and doing the same to it. He'd wait for a moment then make his getaway to someplace safe like his dojo.

She was tense. Lara could feel every muscle in her body knotting and contracting. Situations like that always seemed to light her nerves, which in turn made her tense, and the semi-chilly air was not helping much. Hazel orbs watched as the police came and went, in and out. A few nodded to her, she even got a few good morning Lara's. Which was returned with a smile, a nod or a simple good morning back. A few eyes lingered a little longer then they should, nothing the Brit wasn't used too and especially attired as she was now. To beat the living hell out of a punching bag, lift a few weights and perhaps go a few rounds in the ring. Sara's words echoed in her mind. Don't go far, funny thing was that she wanted to become rather small and disappear into a crack in the sidewalk. All Lara needed was the boys in blue finding out she had a hit placed on her head by one of the more powerful mafias in town. Yes, that would be grand wouldn't it. Images came to mind of her under a ruddy police protection program. She shuddered. Lady Lara Croft was not a woman in the need of protection. However she could just hear Sara, It's for the best Lara really it is. Bah. Hazel orbs rolled as the thoughts were pushed aside. However a sudden disturbance seemed to take over," Oh ruddy hell now what.." A brow quirked as a familiar voice carried over the sounds of radios, sirens and so forth into Lara's ears," Great. Jackie." Of all the times for him to show up too. Eyes shifted to peer into the window at Sara's form. Good she had yet to notice, or find out rather. Now Lara had to find Mr. Estacado, before he got himself into trouble and sure enough she found him. Just look for the tall handsome Italian holding two golden. Lara grinned. Holding two Golden Desert Eagles with cops around him ready to pounce and him ready to kill them all in a few simple shots. The Lady decided on the back approach and went around the ambulance. Soon she was standing next to him, hands on hips, and a rather disgruntled _expression on her face," Jackie what do you think you are doing?" Hissed that oh so familiar accent to him, as she glanced quickly at the window of the gym, good still hadn't noticed. Yet )," We need to talk." A slender hand was placed firmly on his arm," Now, if you don't mind." Eyes wavered to the dozen or so blue boys now gathered around," You can muck with your friends later." Her tone was urgent as her other hand flexed near her own gun tucked into the waist of her shorts. She was in no mood to be messed with this morning and for everyone's sakes Jackie had better take the hint and plus it would be an excuse to get her out of giving a statement.

It didn't take long for the cars to begin arriving in front of the gym. But from their shouting Sara deduced they might not make it inside anytime soon. She was on her feet and running down the paint peeling hallway. Kicking the door open with her sneaker, Sara was met by the sight of several officers engaged in a standoff. A familiar looking face waving a golden gun disappeared after discarding an officer and Sara's eyes widened! A hit on Lara and who shows up but the mafia's number one hitter?! This was far from coincidental. How better to save himself then to put himself into an intimate situation with the girl. If Lara couldn't see it, then she truly was blind. Saving her. sounded like a bunch of crap to Sara. If he was just saving her, then why would he be waving a gun around? Sara knew about his ties to the Frankie and the mob, but slippery as Jackie was she was never able to pin anything on him. Not today. Sara wasn't wearing Kevlar. hell she wasn't even armed, but it didn't stop her from running toward the ambulance. "Estacado?! You're under arrest!" she snarled though clenched teeth. Sara leaped into the air and rolled herself across the hood of the car. Upon landing in a crouched position she threw her leg out in a graceful sweep.

he raised a brow and turned his head to the side, his eyes meeting Lara's for the time... "Well look who it is... my new favorite person." He looked around and observed the options... if only it was night time... the Darklings could do all the dirty work. Jackie looked ahead and towards an alleyway... "Well if you know how to get me outta here without me having to kill, lead on."... just as he spoke guess who decided to show herself to the scene of the crime... "Your with her?!? Oh damn, just great.... now somebody's gotta die and it ain't gonna be me."... his eyes focused on Pezzini and he seemingly smirked, e knew all too well that she didn't much like him and that she wouldn't hesitate on firing on him. It was negotiation time... "Hey, Pez.... let's work this out... I really don't want any trouble but I'll kill whoever wants to jump in the way of these two chambers. So either let me go and we can finish this.... Witchblade to Darkness later or your going back to the precinct badly bruised along with your dead buddies who wont get the satisfaction of live like I'll allow you. Make your choice now Lady... I'm pressed for time!!" His right leg lifted from off of the ground and his left soon after followed. He made a skip like step backwards, barely getting over the sweep but he didn't need to leap to get over it as it would've caused his to lose a certain type of focus he had on the event. His two guns aimed at their new target awaiting the final verdict.

Suddenly it was quite obvious Sara knew. Hazel orbs shot up," Bugger." Just in time to see the Detective go into let's kick some ass mode. Not good," Yes. Defiantly one of those days." Muttered the Brit as she was all to sure this was going to get ugly and fast. Which meant she had to think and or move fast herself to stop it before it got any worse. Thoughts pressed, would she have to do this when Jackie and Terry met? Break up a fight? A mental sigh. It was highly likely and very possible indeed. Lara had a feeling Jackie was the sort of when he discovered he could have something he had been wanting no one else could touch. The English woman shook her head, and here she thought she often acted without thinking to often and irrationally. Sara was about to take that cake with this move. One of several things could happen in this situation. All of them save for Jackie simply walking away and not dealing with it Lara wanted to avoid. However, reality quickly told her to keep dreaming. It was defiantly time for on of her damn the torpedoes off the cuff sort of split second plans. Personally to Lara, Pez just acted rather stupid on her part. The Witchblade did not like The Darkness. Hence it did not like Jackie, hence if Sara attacked Jackie and he fought back and Lara figured he probably would the Blade might get testy and decide to rear itself onto Sara in protection. Lady Croft knew more about that Mystical Weapon then she was willing to let Sara know right now. hazel orbs shifted to Jackie? Who knew he could be rational, but Sara wasn't going to get a chance to answer oh no. Suddenly a un shot rang off into the air," Enough!" The brass balled Archaeologist stepped between Jackie and Sara, one foot now resting on the back bumper of the car Pez was crouched on," This will not be finished now, later or ever. I swear you're both acting like children." Lara took a deep breath still holding the gun she had snatched from Bishop high in the air," Petty, really." hazel orbs glared darkly at both Pez and Estacado," Sara, stop with the unneeded bloody heroics and get your arse down here now." The Brit turned to face Jackie, her index fingers pressing the barrel of his guns off her now as she was standing in the line of fire ," All three of us need to talk, so swallow this problem between the two of you now and follow me." Lara trained her gun on Sara now," I mean it Pez. I'm in no mood." Hazel orbs shifted briefly to Jackie before falling on the cops now staring at the scene," Bloody pigs get to work all of you now!" When Lara gets mind her accent seems to get thicker and she was over boiling point right now. With that she turned her attention back to the -children-," Now. I really do not cherish the thought of sending you two too your corners. Follow me don't ask questions." With that Lara waited for Sara to get off the car before moving towards the alley and away from other eyes and ears.

Sara moved from her crouched position on the ground, and despite the twin guns aimed for her and the firing of Miss Croft's own hand cannon. She wasn't about to let this asshole get away with assaulting a fellow officer. 'Unnecessary heroics? Lara was out of her British bombshell mind!' Regardless of the multitude of guns aimed at her Sara knew she had to do something. The Witchblade hissed in her mind. ~'attack.destroy! KILL'~ At last she and the weapon were talking the same language. The red gem glowed brightest, but the two smaller ones emitted their own light as it began to unfurl up her arm. Sara was reaching out with her right, now gauntleted hand while an unholy fire licked at the palm and fingertips. "I'm not in the mood to ask nicely anymore Jackie. Now I suggest you assume the position or I'm going to have to use Force." While she talked the weapon's tendrils snapped to and fro on their own accord enveloping parts of her frame with their green armor.

The shot echoed through the vicinity, causing all to currently stop. His edginess didn't subside though. He kept guns pointed at Sara while giving eye to Lara... at least till she took it upon herself and get in the way and remove the aiming of his guns. HE kept ears on Lara and eyes on Sara. Eventually he guided the guns downwards until finally spinning them around his fingers and replacing them back into their rightful holsters. His arms folded tight at his chest...he was simply waiting now. He gave Lara a certain look of disapproval... "Your very bold, Ms. Croft. But I'll let it go... For this instance anyways."... he kept the look on his facial features even when he looked over to Sara. His hands stayed ready at all times due to his cautious nature and the fact that Pezzini wasn't the closest of friends with him. Jackie at the present time didn't look too armed but he was a concealed war machine. He had enough guns to declare war to a small country. He narrowed his eyes to Sara then pushed his hand through his coat reaching behind his back He pulled the Triple Barrel Shotgun from behind his back and took aim at Pezzini. She was cutting it way too close and the Witchblade was now active without having the power of the Darkness. He closed one eye then pulled one of the two triggers. The first trigger shot off the top two barrels and the second trigger let off the third barrel. He pulled the second trigger a millisecond after. The sound of two shots made by the shotgun. Two scatter shells went her way and the third shell sent shortly after.

Lara shook her head, "Sara don't do this." hazel orbs scanned around. No one but Jackie, Lara and Sara could see the Blade. A car was blocking the view for now. However Lara wasn't in the mood for chances and if Pez would stop and think she'd back off as well. However Lara had a funny feeling this was far from over indeed. Hazel orbs swiftly moved to Jackie," Just let her arrest you. I can pay off the bloody bail." Yes. One of those days for sure indeed. Secretly Lara wondered if it could get any worse then it was now. Probably so. Quickly the Brit checked the clip of her gun. Half loaded good, if she had to she'd shoot them both. Something had to get these two to stop fighting. Something, Lara just had to think. If only she had a second gun. And then it happened. She figured as much," Jackie no!" One, then two and followed by a third? hazel orbs went wide," Bugger." Lara had to act fast. Everything seemed to move in slow motion and if this didn't stop their fighting who knows what will? Lara dove forward at Sara as she had done when the Yakuza had opened fire in the gym only this time it would hurt. Lara's knowledge of guns registered quickly in her mind. Scatter bullets some of them might hit, some might not. However Lara was now knocking the target off course and somewhat becoming the target now herself. The things she did for her friends, the people she cares about. hazel orbs shut one bullet grazed her thigh as she dived the second missing her and the third well went in Lara's left side just above her hip and back out the other side," Uh..." The pain hit, Lara was good with pain after all you get hurt a lot even worse then getting nailed with a bullet. However the Brit fell to the ground, blood beginning to pool from her side as she glanced at Jackie a moment then slipped into unconscious state.

Sheridan's chest rose and fell with his breath as he lie on his back in the bed. Lids opened slightly as he shifted the sheets were tossed about some and not really covering his form any. Silently his form shifted while fingers moved against the slender wrist draping over his bare waist. Moving softly he put the woman's arm back down onto the bed and moved from it. Sliding carefully to the edge so as not to wake her he sat feet pressing against the ground. The form of the Brit moved across the ground and shifted his boxers. Picking up something small from his slacks he moved towards the dresser in the room, lifting keys softly. Opening the small case he pressed the key into it and closed tightly, pressing down before opening it once more. Inside a small copy of the keys markings. Moving again he pulled another similar case out and did a press of another key before shifting watching the woman in the bed from the mirror. Fingers slipped into her purse and pulled a small card key out and he tucked it away with the cases and pulled on his clothing. The former spy wasn't with out his cleverness. Moving he pulled his black slacks on as well as the shirt and pulled on his black boots. Working with Lara always seemed to get things complicated. There were distractions, and other events taking place. Though at least the ex-spy was doing his part.. even if he was mixing pleasure with business to get it done. The woman in the bed was an employee of Iron's and the keys were what he needed to be able to get into the main offices. Taking the elevator down he stepped out into the lobby stifling a yawn. How he loathed the early mornings. Sounds seemed to be blaring in his ears as he glanced out the glass front of the apartment building. New York, definitely seemed to be a city that never slept. He stepped outside and stopped a hand running down his face. " Bloody 'ell.." he grumbled and moved. It seemed the girls could find plenty enough trouble on their own without him. Both woman never ceased to surprise him and he was already heading towards everything, using caution and ways he was used to. A brow arched it seemed the Witchblade had been unleashed and than his features changed slightly. That man. He'd seen that man before, but where? Then he remembered the tabloid. That was the bloke Lara'd been keen about he pressed his back against the police car hand moving inside his jacket pulling the silver and black handled P226: SIG. Then there was a shot fired, well more like three and he glanced under the undercarriage of the car to see a form drop to the ground. A woman's form. Sheridan stood lifting the pistol facing towards the man. " Fuckin' a.. didn't your mum ever tell ya you shouldn't attack a woman? You wanker." And his eyes glance to see who'd fallen. He'd expected it perhaps to be a cop but not what he'd seen. "Lara?!" jaw set rigid while brows narrowed and the muscles tensed within his arms.

A tiny voice in her mind tried to remind her that she was out in the middle of the street. anyone could see her right now, and that if word got back to a certain CIA agent that vision of her on a examining table might become a reality. None of it hit home right now. The pony tailed detective was out for vengeance, bloodshed, and paybacks. She was convinced that the attack on her friend Lara Croft had something to do with Jackie. Four Yakuza hit men don't just break open guns in a gym filled with cops unless someone ordered them to. Her green eyes widened into shocked surprise as she saw Jackie pull the shotgun. Without thinking a surge of unholy fire roared from her hand toward the gangster as Lara pushed her to one side. "Lara NO!" Sara screamed As the brunette fell to the ground her head lolled to one side with a sickening 'thunk' against the concrete. The Witchblade hissed in protest and dozens of tendrils hissed out in Jackie's direction. The weapon fed on Sara's raw emotions like a fly to honey. The detective was pushing up from the ground with her left while her right lanced toward the Darkness with the attack of retaliation. "You SHOT her?! You SON OF A BITCH!" Something inside of Sara's mind cracked. it was her willpower to hold back. As the half dozen tendrils lashed from her gauntlet, a huge tunnel of fire and energy roared from her hand and intermingled with the green vines. "I'm gonna enjoy tearing you apart!" It was Michael Yee all over again. her partner falling because she wasn't there to protect her counterpart.

his right eye winced a bit as he saw Lara jump into flight through his ray of shells. She was suicidal indeed... and that was the last conclusion. He knew she was a strong girl but if she took more than one direct hit... she might not make it to tomorrow, let alone the afternoon. Jackie Estacado was as cold as they come but he did have a bit of a heart. It was near 8 in the morning and already there was bloodshed by his gun. He reached his left hand to the inside of his coat towards the Desert Eagle holster. He had one with custom calibration. The golden one with chrome and silver streaks along the chamber. It was originally .50 but now it had attachments of... Silencer, Recoil reducer, rapid fire automation, automatic reloading clip. He stared down at Lara's figure... she managed to get away from two shells but her luck only runs but so far. He pointed the shotgun up, not aiming with it but he kept the Custom aimed at Sara whom was beneath or beside Lara. His accuracy was above all else, one of the most feared in New York. His feet shuffled backwards while he turned... He knew Lara would be okay if he left and allowed for the police and all else to get her to a medical facility. He moved backwards as quick as he could running in reverse. He say the hatred within Sara rising and new that he wasn't gonna have a fun time this morning... why couldn't she test his gangster at night??? One of the more unfortunate times of the Darkness chronicles. He closed one eyes as he moved, taking aim on anything that moved against him. He acted as the U.S. Gov't would upon a terrorist. In his mind his eyes projected crosshairs for his weapons. He shot off two scattered shells at a few tendrils. He quickly switched off between the Custom DE and pushed He closed one eyes as he moved, taking aim on anything that moved against him. He acted as the U.S. Gov't would upon a terrorist. In his mind his eyes projected crosshairs for his weapons. He shot off two scattered shells at a few tendrils. He quickly switched off between the Custom DE and pushed.

Lara felt nothing around her. Blackness. Desperately she wanted to open her eyes, voices about bounced and echoed. What had she done? Something stupid, yes she knew that now. The Brit was willing her body to wake-up come out of it something. Numb. But then a white hot flash of pain. Everything rushing forward, instantly Lara's hazel orbs popped open, a sound escaping her lips more like a cry of pain. Yes, shock Lara is in pain. Slowly she tried to raise up. Her arms for the first time in who knows when feeling weak, like Jell-O. Had they stopped fighting? How long had she been out? Something told her this was all far from over as her blurred gaze caught sight of Terry and her ears heard Sara calling Jackie a son of a bitch. Great. She had only made things worse? Possibly, but if only Sara would have listened to reason. And Lara thought her temper was bad. Her arms gave out and she fell forward," Uh." Kissing asphalt, she hated it and rolled over. Blood it was almost every where, Lara herself felt weak all over from the loss. Suddenly a light switched on in Lara's head," Sara.." came a very hushed usually full of spunk and spitfire British accent," Jackie.. they're after me because they've seen me with him." Lara coughed again, spitting blood. Eyes seeing Jackie moving away. Damnit. It had happened, she had lost someone she cared about for sure now. Stupid, stupid Lara. And Terry was there to see it all take place. Possibly another person she cared about becoming lost as well? This was the main reason Lara Croft doesn't do romantic relationships anymore. They get mucked up and badly. Shaking she lifted her hand, covered in blood. Numb again. Yes everything numb again. No pain. Hazel orbs fought to stay open, Lara's body screamed wanting to shut down. However the fighter within started kicking and Lara wasn't about to let that one happen. So instead she remained there in pain, eyes full of it as more shots were fired from Jackie," Sto--" She had moved to quickly and doubled in pain again," Stop..." It came as a whisper," Please...stop." her eyes shifted from Sara, to Jackie, to Terry then around again as she bit down on her lower lip not waiting to cry out. She felt weak enough as it was and Lara Croft hates to feel weak," Not his fault...mine.." With that she fell back, her breath ragged and short as she clasped at the wound in her side.

What had gotten the Brit so worked up. He knew Lara could handle herself but something about seeing her lying upon the ground having been shot by that man. Whom he'd not cared any for. Pushed the ex-spy to a point he'd never quite been before and it seemed Sara had the same effect though the Witchblade was reaction upon her surge of emotions. Still he watched the man in almost seemingly blinding anger. His finger moved against the trigger, when the other shot came, his rang out as well from where he stood behind the cop car. Arm went slack slightly though he still held the pistol, brows narrowed and the muscles within his cheeks taught Clearly he was clenching his jaw. But he watched as the tendrils of the Witchblade moved, and Jackie defended himself against it. The man was moving away while other sirens were beginning to blare round the corners. So early in the morning and such racket. Still his thoughts were dark and Sheridan found himself wishing to have seen Sara wielding the Witchblade, tearing though the man's flesh. But why? Because of Lara? She'd been hurt before.. what made this time any different? His head panged him with questions and eyes shifted towards Lara while Sara was advancing. Still holding his pistol his other hand fisted slamming into the hood of the cop car denting the hood. From all the sound there was barely the sound of Lara's voice from the ground. Still anger was bottled up inside him teeth moved slightly in almost a grinding fashion. "You.. BLOODY.Wanker. Bugger, wretched.. Yankee git!" Terry seemed to almost sputter the words out. But his mind was whirling already almost chiding him. Form backed away slightly and he jumped up crossing over the cop car's already dented hood to the sidewalk. Dropping down slightly he moved towards Lara. Shoulder heaved forwards as he looked down towards the Surrey woman, yet still phrases of speech weren't quite understandable "Bloody.. idea.. brilliant.. I'll.." what did he want. He wanted to go after Jackie, so much so he was trying to control himself. But it would have been as stupid as Lara trying to be -Miss Peace- Keeper-. There was a bit of a snot but still he kept gun in hand near Lara, all still with glances towards the man trying to escape.

A few things worked though the detective's mind as the tunnel of fire and energy raged into the gangster Jackie Estacado. The first thought was that she was finally free of all the restraints that she normally kept her holding back the Witchblade. The second was that this freedom scared her. As the fire hit a satisfying whisper echoed in her ears, ~'Yessssss.. Kill him.. Destroy the Darkness!'~ Sara was screaming in rage as she felt herself lost in the attack. She was on her feet now, her clothes torn completely asunder with only the Witchblade decorating her skin. The ponytail had fallen loose and her hair was wild flowing about her face and shoulders as the Witchblade's vines worked though the tresses. Part of her heard Lara, but the voice was so far away. Sara wanted to embrace her friend, pick up her broken body and carry her to safety, and it seemed her plead for help was answered by the debonair ex-spy Terry Sheridan. With her eyes narrowed into slits Sara's jade irises matched with Jackie's blue calculating stare as the fire and energy roared across his body. "See you in hell Jackie." She spoke low.

Eye reopened as he further reared himself more and more into the alleyway. A thought came to mind... Sara was become a real wild child and she might just compromise Lara while trying to hunt him down. She was not in a sane state of mind and she needed a real wake up call and Lara needed a few stitches and the shells removed from her side. Damn, the things he did for women... Or at least for this particular one. He'd never attempt removal of his own life in hopes of saving another's life. But his compromise wouldn't be in vain if Lara made It out... He'd go out like a true Gangster... Live By The Sword & Die By the Sword ~ Live By The Gun & Die By The Gun. That was the code he lived by and if he went out the way he came in then he wouldn't at all be mad. His movements in the alleyway stopped. He rested his arms at his sides and stared Sara down. as he stood there, a bullet ruptured into his right arm. This forced the drop of his triple barrel shotgun. He raised a brow and looked down at his arm. The bullet went clearly thru it and left a nice little hole. He didn't get angry this time. Something else was his prime focus besides Sheridan & Pezzini. He slowly started walking forwards towards Sara... he would now do whatever was necessary in order to keep from having his new mission compromised. The burst of fire that was released at him burnt him pretty badly but his newfound adrenaline gave him the will to overcome pain and opposition. shots left in a matter of 5-6 seconds. Each was varied in aim... heading for the torso [3 bullets], the arm's [2 bullets for each arm], legs [2 bullets for each], one for the neck, and the rest for the chest Pain was no longer an object to him. He'd been trained to be the best in the business for years without end. And if he allowed something trivial as this to stop him, he didn't deserve to be consider the Best in his field. His wrists cracked as he rolled them... more so from the left than the right since he was injured on the right side. Jackie had good doctors and they'd patch him up real good later on. Somebody was about to feel real pain and anguish soon enough. Emotions were a mean to an end and that which was driven by emotion was doomed to a short lived life. He quickly ripped the jacket off. Which was still burning. The jacket fell onto the ground and his shirt shown, surrounded by numerous holsters. Like stated before... he was packing enough heat to take on a small country. He slowly maneuvered his arm behind his back to the sheath of his Sword. As he removed it from it's sheath, the glimmer of light released from it. He placed the sword steady in front of him now, poised and ready for anything. He was gonna get Lara up and out of this place. None would stand in his way now. Dark blue eyes stared over the area, as far as his peripheral vision would allow.

Someone was at her side. Terry. Oh this was just great, it was all coming to a head now, everything was crashing and going to burn. Hazel orbs shifted taking in Sheridan's face. He was mad, pissed as hell. Lara knew that look," Don't.." She gripped his shirt sleeve with one hand tightly as if to keep the man from moving. Her face was pale, the blood loss pretty bad. However it was slowing and her body wanted to drift back into an unconscious state. No chance. She was not going to allow such a thing. No chance in hell was she going to black out again despite the pain. A crowd had begun to draw around now, perhaps they thought it was some movie being filmed? But all the -actors- knew it was very real indeed. Sara was going wacko. Going? No, she was gone. Stupid, stupid Lara. She kept repeating it in her mind, one to keep herself pissed to stay with it, alert. One good thing, this was happening during the day. At night it might have been ten times worse. Someone could have ended up dead by now. The possibly still remained. Lara kept her mind in orbit. Eyes falling from Terry to Jackie and back again. She was not prepared for these two meeting so soon, and well the situation made it even worse. It was clear Sheridan was shooting daggers at Jackie, but now it would be interesting what Mr. Estacado shot back. If Jackie really cared about her, he'd stop fighting Sara and somehow bring it to an end. If Terry still cared he wouldn't get into it with either Sara or Jackie, and if Sara was a true friend she wouldn't. But Pez wasn't in control of herself right now. Her anger, The Witchblade was in control. Hazel orbs went wide in horror as she watched her best friend begin a hellish assault on a man she might possible have deep feelings for," No.." She couldn't watch this happen. The brownish-green orbs clenched shut as her head turned forcefully to one side. She couldn't watch. her grip on Terry seemed to tighten as Sara's assault went on. Clinging to one man she might still have deep feelings for because another was being murdered by her friend in front of her very being. Geez Lara how pathetic can you get? Asked the Brit of herself. The Tomb Raider was torn. Mentally, physically, everything torn. If only The Blade would show it's Wielder the truth. If only, key words there. Eyes opened hearing gun shots firing. He was alive? How? She wouldn't question it now. Later, however Lara needed to do something to end this now. Sara was going nuts she had to be stopped. Jackie seemed to have the same idea already, and he had a sword? Eyes shifted to Terry," Get out of here....while you still," She coughed and winced," Can." Her hand let go of him and gave a push, eyes pleading for him to go," Please..." She was begging, eyes frantically keeping a watch on both Sara and Jackie," If you...." She took a ragged breathe," If you don't it will get worse." Jackie was hot under the collar and heavily armed. Why was beyond Lara and Sara had gone mad," Trust me. I'll be fine..." Eyes clenched shut a moment in pain," Please." She took his hand and kissed it, doing everything in her power at the moment to get him to save himself. Hopefully he'd be smarter then the rest of them in this and listen too Lara.

The anger was slowly calming but not by much and it seemed all of them had been running on major adrenaline. He had moved towards Lara from over the car while Sara and the Witchblade were trying to make work of Jackie. He should have known better, but were he to use Lara's words he'd been a -skirt chaser- the night before and that was partly the only reason he had been there now. And what did he have with him, his gun with a magazine already missing one bullet and an extra magazine. This was no how enough to fend of Jackie, who was obviously well packed for a morning stroll. Still the stress the tensions everything was building, and it would all come to a very dangerous end. They were becoming preoccupied, and Jackie could have easily got away with as much protection as he had, but he wasn't. the man was now moving towards Lara. He took a breath still gripping his pistol and looked down at Lara. She was in pain, and he knew it and still he couldn't help himself from feeling anger towards the man. And still he asked himself how the Tomb Raider could have liked such a man. Form tensed and he shifted over Lara as more shots where fired and he could feel her gripping his shirt. His heart was pounding like a lump in his throat and he shifted slightly. Chin turned over his shoulder slightly and he could hear his voice raise but he didn't remember the thought of yelling the almost warning as he shouted Sara's name. Though what could he do? Nothing. He had no armor, and he knew the Witchblade could become like armor and protect the wielder he only wondered how much so. If Sheridan had been a holy man, he would have been praying. But he wasn't and all he could do was try to work things out. Eyes moved back to Lara who seemed to be struggling. The sounds around them were becoming louder as was the crowd the event had no doubt been called in and NYPD already on their way. Swallowing he watched Lara before patting her cheek slightly. "Come on Lara, love. Stay focused.. eh.. can't be fallin' asleep. We'll get you out of here darling." But still her grip on his shirt arm didn't lose. His face contorted slightly and the hand that had brushed against her cheek moved gripping against his side. The bullet had ricochet off some part of the Witchblade or been deflected and tore through his leather jacket against and against his side. Clearly the morning had gone from bad to worse and quickly. Now Jackie was moving closer towards them and his brows lowered some against the pain now in his side and the pistol lifted. Ragged breath pulled from his lips as Lara murmured "I'm not leaving you to some.. mad yank bloke." He growled though his teeth "'E's already shot you once." His form was rigid and he could feel Lara take the had he'd held against his side and kiss the back of it. Though the other side of it was bloodied. Eyes moved back down towards her and cheeks tightened "NO." he barked sharply. Before moving standing up, ignoring anything else he felt. "If you.. didn't want me back in you life.. Lara Croft. You should 'ave just left me in the prison!" form shifted but he didn't move. Still, his jaw clenched once again. Lara and He were too much alike. Stubborn Brits. She knew it. They both knew it. how could she expect him to do anything, she herself wouldn't have

Sara's steps toward the rain of gunfire was commendable. She had shown a resounding resilience to the lure of bloodlust the Witchblade had often offered before. With each passing footstep, the Witchblade shifted to and fro blocking the bullets that soared toward her. "I will not rest until I hear you're bones break under my boot." Emerald orbs infused with yellow flecks blazed as her inner turmoil and wrath was unveiled. The seasoned cop grimaced as the quick 'chink chink chink' of bullets raining against different sections of the alien metal. Sparks of lead alongside the green metal, flashed across the brunette's face. With each movement toward the gangster three ropes of green arched up from around Sara's back, the organic metal framing her head like a crown of deadly spikes. The last bullet roared out of the barrel of Jackie's gun, Sara's mind slowed down the events to a sickening crawl. Fire was licking at the gun's barrel and the last bullet soared toward her. The tendrils that had framed her head a few second ago, moved with inhuman speed in a tri-angled attack toward the gangster. The thick ropes of metal closed in, so did the fifty caliber bullet. When it pierced her skin she was surprised. The detective would have screamed, but the blood spraying out of the hollow recess of her throat merely filled her mouth with the crimson essence of life. It didn't stop the relentless attack of the Witchblade, but Sara fell to her knees after their attack ended. After the blade's reprisal of fury it retracted back into a watch form leaving a very naked and very hurt Sara Pezzini lying on the sidewalk as her life's blood flowed out in a pool before her eyes.

Jackie looked at Sara for a moment, the bullet connected... at least one, a major bullet at that. He swung his arm backwards and held it there. He knew of another attack by the blade and awaited it's coming. His hand fiercely struck down and tuck out the tendrils. A loud sigh coming as he did so. His eyes quickly darted to Sheridan and Lara. His instinct told him to hurry and that's what he'd do. His arm swung back again and he threw the sword towards the man's shoulder, close to his face but more so aimed for the outer chest area. As he did this, his now free hand took hold of Lara. whatever happened to Sheridan happened. It was none of his concern but Lara was. He'd violently throw her onto his shoulder then turn himself around and make a run for it. He took down the alley and climbed the ladder. The adrenaline was starting to die down now though and thus making him weaker. his eyes looked to Lara, but he said nothing... she needed a doctor quick, since so much time was wasted. Once at the top he jumped into someone else's home and continued his run. Upon exiting the apt. he rushed for the rooftop, heading towards the other apt. which connected. He'd make his way down quicker than ever thought possible, hopping flight after flight of stairs. Once on the outside he was away from the danger of police but not too far from it. Thus he furthered himself and ran more, going faster with each stride. His Dojo was close by and that was the nearest place to him that he could actually trust to go to The pains got worse and worse as he ran with this woman on his shoulder. He did make it into his domain though... hopefully in time. The doctors immediately came to his aid and took Lara from him, towards the back, while he escorted himself to his personal living quarters. A doctor soon to be with him.

It was becoming more and more difficult to remain conscious now. Lara felt cold, the world around her becoming confused and blurry. The bullet didn't hit any organs, nothing overly major. However she would probably be in Hospital for a few days and then forced to bed rest for sure. Something she detests. Bed rest. However now wasn't the time to be worrying about the future she had to worry about now," Terry.. please. He didn't shoot me.." She forced herself to set up a little, the pain tearing at her. Swallowing a moment she only spit out more blood," I...took the bullet." She winced and fell back. Great he said those words. If you didn't want me. Hell, she didn't know what she wanted," Bloody Hell....don't do this now...please.." So in the end she still had her spunk after all. She had too, her will was the only thing keeping her going. Ah that touch, how her body remembered it so. It also remembered Jackie's touch as well. Damn. Hazel orbs went wide again as Sara fell. It was over, and in all honesty they all had lost. No winners this time, and maybe never again. Lara felt like the biggest loser of all. She was fighting for life, Sara was now as well. Again the want to let it go and drift into unconsciousness. She still fought, but at the rate of everything it was becoming difficult. Everything was going in and out focus. Lara thought or did she see Terry take a hit? She wasn't sure. Next thing she knew He had been knocked out of the way and Jackie had her. He was a mess, so was she. And now so was Sara and Terry. What big bloody mess this all became. Lara never knew anything else from there. She was out, her body and mind tired of fighting. The last thing she remember was Jackie picking her up. Again, the Knight in Shining Dark Armor came to the rescue. Or had he really only made this worse for Lara?